Artificial nail and method of forming same

ABSTRACT

An artificial nail is formed by injection molding a first section and a second section. The first section and second section are adjacent to one another. One of the sections defines a front distal tip of the artificial nail and is formed by injecting a quantity of heated material under pressure from a nozzle into a sprue, through a runner and through a cavity gate into a mold cavity. The other section is formed by injecting another quantity of heated material under pressure from a heated nozzle through another cavity gate into the mold cavity.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.11/473,251, filed Jun. 22, 2006 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,677,257, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/348,718 filed Jan.22, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,281, which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. application Ser. No. 10/281,500 filed Oct. 28, 2002, now abandoned.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.No. 10/641,986 filed Aug. 15, 2003 now abandoned which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/348,718 filed Jan.22, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,281 and U.S. application Ser. No.10/281,500 filed Oct. 28, 2002, now abandoned.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.No. 11/041,182 filed Jan. 20, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,337,783, which isa continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/348,718 filedJan. 22, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,281 and U.S. application Ser. No.10/641,986 filed Aug. 15, 2003 now abandoned. U.S. application Ser. No.10/348,718 filed Jan. 22, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,281 is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/281,500 filed Oct.28, 2002, now abandoned. U.S. application Ser. No. 10/641,986 filed Aug.15, 2003 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.10/348,718 filed Jan. 22, 2003 and U.S. application Ser. No. 10/281,500filed Oct. 28, 2002, now abandoned.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to artificial nails and methods of formingartificial nails. More particularly, the present invention relates tomethods for forming artificial nails by injection molding and artificialnails formed according to such methods.

2. The Prior Art

It is known in the art of adorning the hands or feet to provideornamental nail accessories made from thin, molded plastic membersmanufactured generally in the shape of a fingernail or toenail. Theprior art contains many patents directed to artificial fingernails orother natural fingernail coverings and methods of applying them usingvarious forms of adhesives. See, e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 4,632,134 to Reid;U.S. Pat. No. 4,671,305 to Mann; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,745,934 and 4,751,935to Mast et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,767,648 to Hokama et al.; U.S. Pat. No.4,943,462 to Komerska et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,638,835 to Franz et al.;U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,813 to Carroll; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,394,100 toChang.

Artificial nails are typically made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene(ABS) plastic. ABS plastic is useful because it bonds with nail glue andis readily dissolved by acetone which facilitates nail removal. However,ABS plastic cracks easily and is relatively inflexible which preventsthe artificial nail from conforming to a particular user. As a result,artificial nails are made in a variety of sizes. However, nail shapesare different, and it is impractical to make nails to accommodate thevarious shapes for each customer. Instead, artificial fingernails aretypically sold in standard sets by size and length, but these setscannot precisely fit all people.

Another drawback with known artificial nails is that their appearance isusually readily distinguishable from natural nails. Generally, thebetter the artificial nail fits at the cuticle area, the more theartificial nail will resemble a natural nail. Achieving this fit withartificial nails, however, is difficult and often requires considerableskill in shaping and filing the artificial nail.

To address the problem of making an artificial fingernail accommodate aspecific user's hand, U.S. Pat. No. 6,196,234 to Gifford and U.S. Pat.No. 6,382,217 to Coker et al. make a mold from the user's hand withwhich to construct a custom-made artificial fingernail. These processesare complicated, and there is still a need for an artificial fingernailthat is more universally conformable to varying finger sizes and shapes.

Artificial nails may be injection molded using known methods whereineach artificial nail is formed as a single section and from a singlematerial type. Artificial nails produced by known injection moldingprocesses may include vestiges or protrusions disposed at a locationwhere the material used to form the artificial nail enters a mold cavitydefining the shape and dimensions of the artificial nail. Such vestigesmay detract from or interfere with the fit of the artificial nail,particularly if the vestige is disposed on a portion of the artificialnail to be positioned adjacent a wearer's cuticle area. The vestiges mayalso form air pockets that prevent good sealing between the protrusionand an adjacent surface. Accordingly, a need exists for an artificialnail and a method for producing an artificial nail having an improvedfit, particularly at a wearer's cuticle area.

Artificial nails, like natural nails, are often decorated by applyingnail polish to one or more portions of the nail. An artificial nail thatcan be produced with portions having different colors in a simple andeconomical way would therefore be useful.

It is also known to apply nail polish to human nails in a style known asa French manicure or French tip using fingernail masks or guides toassist in applying the nail polish. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 2,234,657to Smaldone; U.S. Pat. No. 2,239,040 to Holmes; U.S. Pat. No. 4,577,648to Dinerstein et al; U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,384 to Hokama et al; U.S. Pat.No. 5,150,726 to Rucker; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,638,837 and 5,645,090 to Juhlet al; U.S. Pat. No. 5,782,248 to Chang; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,714 toBenkart.

As discussed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,090 to Juhl et al, aFrench manicure generally involves applying a white or off-white polishin a uniform line at the tip of the nail while not applying such polishto remainder of the nail, i.e. that portion extending from the tip ofthe nail to the cuticle of the nail. Several methods of obtaining aFrench manicure are discussed in the patent, including employing ahighly skilled manicurist, which is difficult, time consuming andexpensive.

It is also known to provide a composite artificial fingernails having a“French manicure” look. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,908,035 to Carroll et al. Ina known method, color may be applied to a portion of an artificial nailin a two-step process after the artificial nail is formed. In a firststep, the color is applied to a top surface at the tip of the artificialnail, for example by pressing a pad having a colored solution againstthe top surface of the nail. In a second step, the thin layer of coloredmaterial is sealed, for example by spraying the artificial nail with asealing agent.

There are several drawbacks associated with existing techniques forapplying a color to an artificial nail or a portion thereof. Inparticular, in the known methods the color comprises a thin layerapplied only on a top surface of the artificial nail. This thin coloredlayer may be easily scratched, chipped or rubbed off, thereby revealingthe underlying color of the artificial nail. Moreover, the thin coloredlayer according to existing techniques is susceptible to peeling,particularly when the artificial nail is cut to size by severing aportion of the tip of artificial nail.

Thus, although a number of methods for providing various colors toartificial nails or portions thereof are known, including providingcolor to a portion of an artificial nail in the style of a Frenchmanicure, there is still a need for an artificial nail and a method forforming an artificial nail having various colors, wherein a coloredportion of the artificial nail is not prone to damage by scratching,chipping, rubbing and/or peeling. Moreover, a need exists for a methodfor producing an artificial nail having different colors in a simple andeconomical way.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An artificial nail and a method for forming an artificial nail byinjection molding are provided. In one aspect, a method for forming anartificial nail includes the steps of forming a first section andforming a second section. The first section and second section areadjacent to one another. One of the first section and the second sectiondefines a front distal tip of the artificial nail and is formed using arunner system method. Another of the first section and the secondsection is formed using a hot tip gate process.

In another aspect, a method for forming an artificial nail includes thesteps of forming a first section, forming a second section, and forminga third section. The first section, second section and third sectionsare adjacent to one another. One of the first section, second sectionand third section defines a front distal tip of the artificial nail andis formed using a runner system method. A remaining two sections of thefirst section, second section and third section are formed using a hottip gate process.

In another aspect, a method for forming an artificial nail includes thesteps of forming a first section and forming a second section. The firstsection and the second section are adjacent to one another. One of thefirst section and second section defines a front distal tip of theartificial nail and is formed by injecting a quantity of heated materialunder pressure from a nozzle into a sprue, through a runner and througha cavity gate into a mold cavity. Another of the first section andsecond section is formed by injecting another quantity of heatedmaterial under pressure from a heated nozzle through another cavity gateinto the mold cavity.

In another aspect, a method for forming an artificial nail includes thesteps of forming a first section, forming a second section and forming athird section. The first section, second section and third section areadjacent to one another. One of the first section, second section andthird section defines a front distal tip of the artificial nail and isformed by injecting a quantity of heated material under pressure from anozzle into a sprue, through a runner and through a cavity gate into amold cavity. A remaining two sections of the first section, secondsection and third section are formed by injecting respective quantitiesof heated material from respective heated nozzles through respectiveother cavity gates into the mold cavity.

In another aspect, an artificial nail includes a first section and asecond section. The first section and the second section are adjacent toone another. One of the first section and second section defines a frontdistal tip of the artificial nail and is formed by a runner systeminjection molding process. Another of the first section and secondsection is formed by a hot tip gate injection molding process.

In a further aspect, the artificial nail is a nail extension including apolymeric body having first and second sections. The first section has astepped upper surface which forms a receiving area in a portion of theupper surface. The second section of the polymeric body is disposed inthe receiving area. The first section is made of a first translucentpolymeric material and has a back proximal part and a front distal part.The back proximal part is adapted to be disposed on an upper surface ofa natural nail. The front distal part has an end adapted to abut againstan end of the natural nail. The second section is made of a secondopaque polymeric material disposed above the front distal part and aportion of the back proximal part.

In another aspect, an artificial nail includes a first section, a secondsection and a third section. The first section, second section and thirdsection are adjacent to one another. One of the first section, thesecond section and the third section defines a front distal tip of theartificial nail and is formed by a runner system injection moldingprocess. A remaining two sections of the first section, second sectionand third section are formed by a hot tip gate injection moldingprocess.

An advantage of an artificial nail and a method of forming an artificialnail according to an aspect of the invention is that an artificial nailis provided which has an improved fit at a wearer's cuticle area. Afurther advantage of an artificial nail and a method for forming anartificial nail according to an aspect of the invention is that anartificial nail having two or more discrete sections is provided,wherein the properties and appearance of each section of the artificialnail may be tailored to the particular requirements associated with thatsection. A further advantage is that a strong mechanical bond isprovided at an interface between adjoining sections.

Another advantage of an artificial nail and a method for forming anartificial nail according to an aspect of the invention is that a simpleand economical way for producing an artificial nail having variouscolors is provided, wherein a colored portion of the artificial nail isnot prone to damage by scratching, chipping, rubbing and/or peeling.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other benefits and features of the present invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description considered inconnection with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood,however, that the drawings are designed as an illustration only and notas a definition of the limits of the invention.

In the drawings, wherein similar reference characters denote similarelements throughout the several views:

FIG. 1 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a firstembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a secondembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a thirdembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a fourthembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a fifthembodiment of the invention, shown as an extension to a wearer's naturalnail;

FIG. 6 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a sixthembodiment of the invention, shown as an extension to a wearer's naturalnail;

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a process for forming an artificialnail according to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 6;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a process for forming an artificialnail according to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5; and

FIG. 9 is a side view of an artificial nail according to a seventhembodiment of the invention, shown as an extension to a wearer's naturalnail.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Turning now in detail to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows an artificial nailcomprising three sections according to an embodiment of the invention.Artificial nail 10 is generally shaped to simulate the appearance of anatural nail.

The term “artificial nail” is meant to include both a full-cover nailintended to be applied over the entire surface of a wearer's naturalnail (as shown, for example in FIGS. 1-4) and a nail extension intendedto be applied to a portion of a wearer's natural nail (as shown, forexample in FIGS. 5 and 6). A wearer's natural nail may be a fingernailor a toenail and accordingly artificial nails according to embodimentsof the invention may be artificial nails sized and shaped to be appliedto a wearer's fingernails or artificial nails sized and shaped to beapplied to a wearer's toenails. Artificial nail 10 may be readilymanufactured in a number of standard sets by size and length. A user canthen select the desired size and length that approximates the user'snail size and shape.

Artificial nail 10 is formed by injection molding. A mold has a moldcavity that defines the dimensions and shape of artificial nail 10. Afirst section 1, a second section 2 and a third section 3 are formed sothat a portion of each section is adjacent to a portion of each of theremaining sections.

In the figures, the respective sections are numbered for ease ofreference only, and it is to be understood that the sections of anartificial nail according to an embodiment of the invention may beformed in any sequence or order.

In a preferred method, first section 1 is formed first and defines afront distal tip of artificial nail 10. Artificial nail 10 is preferablysized so that at least a portion of first section 1 extends from awearer's natural nail. First section 1 may be formed by a runner systemmethod of injection molding. For example, first section 1 may be formedby injecting a quantity of heated material under pressure from a nozzle,into a sprue, through a runner and through a cavity gate or opening in amold into a mold cavity.

As shown in FIG. 1, the runner system arrangement used to form firstsection 1 results in the formation of a projection 11 comprisingsolidified material formed in the channel connecting the cavity gate tothe source of material used to form the artificial nail section.Projection 11 may be formed, for example, in the runner connecting asprue to a cavity gate through which the material used to form firstsection 1 flows. Projection 11 accordingly may have the shape anddimensions of the runner and may be referred to as a runner.

As shown, projection or runner 11 is formed integral with the section ofthe artificial nail formed by a runner system method, for example firstsection 1. Projection or runner 11 must be removed in a separateprocessing step before the artificial nail can be used. Preferably, theartificial nail is sold with runner 11 on first section 1 so that runner1 may be used by the wearer of artificial nail as a handle or applicatorto facilitate application of the artificial nail to the wearer's naturalnail. Runner 11 may also be provided with a number or other indiciaproviding size or other information regarding the associated nail.Following application of the artificial nail to the natural nail, theuser can simply and easily remove runner 11 from the artificial nail.

After removal of the projection or runner 11, a vestige or protrusionmay remain on a portion of the artificial nail section formed by arunner system method. This vestige may detract from or interfere withthe fit of the artificial nail, particularly if the vestige is disposedon an edge of the artificial nail to be positioned adjacent a wearer'scuticle area. The vestige may also form an air pocket that prevents goodsealing between the protrusion and an adjacent surface.

Accordingly, in a method according to an embodiment of the invention, asection of the artificial nail formed by a runner system method ofinjection molding preferably comprises a front distal tip of theartificial nail. A runner 11 used to form the front distal tip sectionof the artificial nail is preferably arranged at an edge of theartificial nail which is not in contact with a wearer's cuticle area orthe wearer's natural nail when the artificial nail is applied. In thisway, a vestige resulting from forming a section of the artificial nailby a runner system method does not detract from or interfere with thefit of the artificial nail. Thus, a method according to an embodiment ofthe invention provides an artificial nail with an enhanced fit at thecuticle area, greater wearer comfort and a more natural lookingappearance. In addition, an air pocket which prevents good sealingbetween the artificial nail and a wearer's natural nail cannot form fromthe protrusion.

As described above, first section 1 may be formed by a runner systemmethod, for example by injecting a quantity of heated material underpressure from a nozzle into a sprue, through a runner and thorough acavity gate into a mold cavity. The material used to form first section1 may be a mixture of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic anda polycarbonate. Additionally, first section 1 may be formed from anyplastic-like material commonly employed in the manufacture of artificialnails, such as ABS plastic, nylon, tenite acetate, vinyl acetate,polycarbonates, polyvinyl chloride, etc.

Preferably, first section 1 comprises a hard, polymeric body. Examplesof suitable hard materials for first section 1 are Styrolux®684D (SBC),a styrene-butadiene block copolymer available from BASF Corporation;Cyro®R40 (acrylic base), an acrylic-based multipolymer available fromCyro Industries of Rockaway, N.J.; Lexane KR01 (PC) (trade name), apolycarbonate available from GE Plastics; K-resin® (SBC), astyrene-butadiene copolymer available from Chevron Phillips ChemicalCompany; TP-UXS (MMBS) (trade name), a methyl methacrylate butadienestyrene terpolymer available from DENKA of Tokyo, Japan; Starex®5010(ABS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Samsung CheilIndustries; Zylar®220 (SMMC) and Nas®30, styrene methyl methacrylatecopolymers available from Nova Chemicals; and Toyalac 920 (clear ABS),an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Toray Resin Company.

The section forming a front distal tip of the artificial nail, forexample first section 1, is preferably different in color from one ormore remaining sections of the artificial nail 10, for example secondsection 2 and/or third section 3. First section 1 may be translucent,transparent, or opaque.

In a preferred embodiment, first section 1 comprises a white, off-whiteor near-white color, wherein one or more additional sections of theartificial nail comprise a contrasting or different color therebyproviding the appearance of a “french tip” or french manicure.

Additionally, the section forming a front distal tip of the artificialnail, for example first section 1, preferably has a color which issubstantially uniform through a thickness of the section. For example,first section 1 may be formed from a substantially homogenous materialsuch that an appearance of first section 1 is substantially the samefrom a top surface to a bottom surface of the section. In this way, theappearance of a colored portion at the distal tip of the artificial nailwill not be diminished by scratching, chipping, rubbing and/or peelingas is the case with existing artificial nails wherein color is appliedas a thin layer disposed over the distal tip section.

Moreover, a method of forming an artificial nail having a distal tipwith a substantially uniform color through its thickness according to anembodiment of the invention eliminates the steps of coating theartificial nail section with a thin layer of nail polish or othercolored solution as well as the additional step of sealing the thincolored layer of the artificial nail with a sealing agent.

Fashioning a front section 1 with a distal portion made from onematerial that extends entirely from the top to the bottom of theartificial nail is preferable over having the distal portion extend onlypartially to the bottom of the distal portion of the artificial nail,such as where a separate layer of material is placed underneath thedistal portion of first section 1. In this way, the entire distal end ofthe artificial nail is one color and material so that even if viewedfrom underneath or from the end and even if scratched, the distalportion of the first section will appear to have one, preferably white,color to better simulate a french manicure.

Accordingly, embodiments of the invention provide a method for formingan artificial nail having various colored sections in a simple andeconomical way.

As shown in FIG. 1, artificial nail 10 may comprise two additionalsections, shown as second section 2 and third section 3. Second section2 and third section 3 may be formed by a hot tip gate process, such as amicro hot tip gate process, using hot manifolds, one for the materialfor second section 2 and one for the material for third section 3. Forexample, each of second section 2 and third section 3 may be formed byinjecting a respective heated material from a respective heated nozzleinto a respective cavity gate in the mold. Preferably, the gates aresmall, for example 0.0025 inches (0.0635 mm) in diameter, as thesections being formed are thin walled, for example 0.005 inches (0.127mm) in thickness.

Use of a hot tip gate process to form second and third sections 2, 3allows the direct gating on the section, which provides flexibility inthe formation of the sections of the artificial nail and better controlover the placement of the vestiges formed on the respective section. Thehot tip gate process also eliminates the waste as no runner material isformed for those sections.

The hot tip gate process used to form second and third sections 2, 3 mayemploy a heated nozzle which feeds the material directly into the moldcavity, preferably at an angle generally upward and directed toward theproximal portion of the artificial nail to facilitate material flow intothe mold. As shown, second section 2 has a first end 22 adjacent thefront distal tip of the artificial nail 10 and a second end 23 distalthe front tip of the artificial nail 10. Similarly, third section 3 hasa first end 32 adjacent the front distal tip of the artificial nail 10and a second end 33 distal the front tip of the artificial nail 10.

Respective gates 21, 31 in the mold cavity used to inject the materialor materials used to form second section 2 and third section 3 may bepositioned at a portion of the respective section other than second end23, 33. Preferably, the gates used to form the second and third sectionsof the artificial nail by a hot tip gate process are disposed in aregion of the respective section proximate the front distal tip sectionformed by a runner system method. Gates 21 and 31 may further bepositioned at an edge or bottom surface of the respective section 2, 3.The gates should be at a location where the artificial nail will not bein contact with a wearer's natural nail to prevent an air pocket fromforming where the vestige or protrusion from the gate is located.Preferably, at least gate 31 from third section 3 is located verticallybeneath a portion of front distal tip section 1 so as to ensure that theprotrusion will not be in contact with the wearer's natural nail andcannot cause an air pocket to prevent sealing between the natural nailand the artificial nail when the artificial nail is applied.

The hot tip gate injection molding process used to form second section 2and third section 3 minimizes the gate vestige formed on the respectivesection. For example, the gate vestige may be 0.005 inches (0.127 mm).This feature contributes to an enhanced fit at the cuticle area, greaterwearer comfort and a more natural looking appearance for the artificialnail. In addition, as stated above, by locating the gate used to form atleast the third or lowermost section 3 distal of where the third section3 will be in contact with the wearer's natural nail, the possibility ofan air pocket between the artificial nail and the wearer's natural nailcaused by the gate vestige is eliminated. Preferably, the gate 21 fromthe second section 2 is also located distal of where third section 3will be in contact with the wearer's natural nail and beneath a portionof front distal tip section 1, but this location is less important asthe gate vestige will be covered by third section 3 and not in contactwith the wearer's natural nail.

The materials used to form second section 2 and third section 3 using ahot tip gate process may be the same or a different material as thematerial used to form first section 1 using a runner system method ofinjection molding. Moreover, the materials used to form second section 2and third section 3 may be the same materials or different materialsfrom each other.

As described above, the respective sections of an artificial nailaccording to the invention may be formed in any order and the sectionnumbers used herein are for ease of reference only. In a preferredembodiment, first section 1 is formed first using a runner systemmethod, followed sequentially by second section 2 and third section 3,each of which is formed using a hot tip gate process.

In a preferred embodiment, second section 2 forms at least a portion ofa top surface of artificial nail 10. The material used to form secondsection 2 may be a mixture of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)plastic and a polycarbonate. Additionally, second section 2 may beformed from any plastic-like material commonly employed in themanufacture of artificial nails, such as ABS plastic, nylon, teniteacetate, vinyl acetate, polycarbonates, polyvinyl chloride, etc.

Preferably, second section 2 comprises a hard, polymeric body. Examplesof suitable hard materials for second section 2 are Styrolux®684D (SBC),a styrene-butadiene block copolymer available from BASF Corporation;Cyro®R40 (acrylic base), an acrylic-based multipolymer available fromCyro Industries of Rockaway, N.J.; Lexane KR01 (PC) (trade name), apolycarbonate available from GE Plastics; K-resin® (SBC), astyrene-butadiene copolymer available from Chevron Phillips ChemicalCompany; TP-UXS (MMBS) (trade name), a methyl methacrylate butadienestyrene terpolymer available from DENKA of Tokyo, Japan; Starex®5010(ABS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Samsung CheilIndustries; Zylar®220 (SMMC) and Nas®30, styrene methyl methacrylatecopolymers available from Nova Chemicals; and Toyalac 920 (clear ABS),an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Toray Resin Company.

Second section 2 and third section 3 may be translucent, transparent,opaque. Second section 2 is preferably different in color from one ormore remaining section of the artificial nail 10. For example, secondsection 2 may comprise a translucent polymeric material which preferablysimulates the color of a natural fingernail. The term “translucent” ismeant to include both transparent or clear materials and tintedmaterials that permit materials disposed underneath to be visible therethrough. Second section 2 may further comprise an opaque material. In apreferred embodiment, second section 2 may be pink in color.

In a preferred embodiment, third section 3 may form at least a portionof a bottom surface of artificial nail 10 adapted to be disposed on anupper surface of a natural nail of a wearer of artificial nail 10. Thirdsection 3 may be generally of uniform thickness, for example 0.8 mm to1.0 mm, but may decrease in thickness (i.e. taper) at second end 33 tofacilitate attachment and blending with a natural nail and to conform tothe contour of second section 2.

The material used to form third section 3 may be a mixture ofacrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic and a polycarbonate.Additionally, third section 3 may be formed from any plastic-likematerial commonly employed in the manufacture of artificial nails, suchas ABS plastic, nylon, tenite acetate, vinyl acetate, polycarbonates,polyvinyl chloride, etc.

Third section 3 may comprise a hard, polymeric body. Examples ofsuitable hard materials for third section 3 are Styrolux®684D (SBC), astyrene-butadiene block copolymer available from BASF Corporation;Cyro®R40 (acrylic base), an acrylic-based multipolymer available fromCyro Industries of Rockaway, N.J.; Lexane KR01 (PC) (trade name), apolycarbonate available from GE Plastics; K-resin® (SBC), astyrene-butadiene copolymer available from Chevron Phillips ChemicalCompany; TP-UXS (MMBS) (trade name), a methyl methacrylate butadienestyrene terpolymer available from DENKA of Tokyo, Japan; Starex®5010(ABS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Samsung CheilIndustries; Zylar®220 (SMMC) and Nas®30, styrene methyl methacrylatecopolymers available from Nova Chemicals; and Toyalac 920 (clear ABS),an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Toray Resin Company.

Preferably, however, third section 3 is formed from a soft or deformablematerial. An advantage of forming third section 3 from a deformablematerial is that each artificial nail will conform more closely to theuser's natural nail when applied thereto. A further advantage of formingthird section 3 from a deformable material is that first section 1 andsecond section 2 may be made from a wide variety of hard substanceswhile also enabling the artificial fingernail to be easily removable byconventional acetone removers. Because the third section 3 comprises adeformable layer that contacts the wearer's nail, materials that do notreadily dissolve in acetone may be used for the first and secondsections without sacrificing ease of removability.

For example, after selecting an appropriately sized artificial nail 10,the user may apply a selected conventional adhesive, such as anethylcyanoacrylate-based glue, to the natural nail. Artificial nail 10is then placed on the natural nail so as to cover substantially all or aportion of the upper nail surface. Pressure is applied by pressing downon artificial nail 10. Such pressure causes third section 3 to compressand conform to the contour of the upper surface of the wearer's naturalnail, thereby providing a better fit. If desired, once applied,artificial fingernail 10 may be trimmed and shaped using a nail file.

Exemplary deformable materials used to form third section 3 arethermoplastic elastomers (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) ormixtures thereof, preferably silicone, silicone derivatives, rubbers, orother materials which will deform under pressure to conform to thecontour of a wearer's natural nail. For example, material suitable forforming soft contact lenses such as silicone elastomers,silicone-containing macromers, hydrogels, silicone-containing hydrogels,siloxanes, siloxane macromers, and mixtures thereof may be used to formthird section 3.

Examples of suitable soft or deformable materials areVersaflex®OM9-802CL, a thermoplastic elastomer alloy available from GLSCorporation of Arlington Heights, Ill.; TPE40ANS200 (trade name), athermoplastic elastomer alloy available from Advanced Elastomer Systems;Elastollan®TPU, a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer available fromBASF Corporation; Estane TPU (trade name), a thermoplastic polyurethaneelastomer available from Noveon, Inc.; and Engage 8407 TPU, a polyolefinelastomer available from Du Pont Dow Elastomers of Wilmington, Del.

The materials for the first, second and third sections 1, 2 and 3 arepreferably chosen so as to be compatible and bond with each otherchemically so that the sections adhere together and the risk ofseparation between sections is minimized. The materials should also bechemically resistant to certain products, such as nail polish oradhesives used to apply the artificial nail to a wearer's natural nail.Preferably, first and second section 1, 2 are formed to be rigid, butflexible. Preferably, first section 1 is white in color and made frompure acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Second section 2 ispreferably pink in color and made from a mixture of ABS andthermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Section 3 is preferably deformable andmade from TPU.

In a preferred embodiment, third section 3 may have a back proximalportion which extends beyond the back proximal part of second section 2and is adapted to conform to a cuticle portion of the wearer's nail andremain deformable when the artificial nail is worn by the wearer, theback proximal portion of the third section 3 forming a portion of a topsurface of the artificial nail without being covered by second section2.

Third section 3 may be translucent, transparent, or opaque. A second endof second section and/or third section 23, 33 may have an upper surfacethat has been treated to render it opaque by chemical or mechanicaletching. The term “opaque” is meant to include frosted surfaces whichmay permit a small amount of light to pass through. Preferably, thisupper surface has a curved “half moon” perimeter to simulate the area ofa natural fingernail. Second end 33 of third section 3 preferably tapersto a smaller thickness, for example 0.03 mm to 0.1 mm, at its proximalend to facilitate attachment and blending with a natural nail and toconform to the contour of second section 2. Additionally, second end 33of third section 3 may comprise a cuticle contact area 34 having acurved edge adapted to contact a cuticle portion of a natural nail.

Adjoining portions of at least one of first section 1, second section 2and third section 3 and another of first section 1, second section 2 andthird section 3 may form a stepped interface. The stepped interfacebetween adjacent sections may comprise a number of substantiallyhorizontal segments and a number of substantially vertical segmentsarranged at approximately right angles to one another. As shown in FIG.1, stepped interface may comprise, for example, a two step interface.

An advantage of forming adjoining sections of an artificial nail as astepped interface is that this structure provides enhanced mechanicalstrength to the artificial nail. The stepped interface provides a strongmechanical bond between adjacent sections of an artificial nailaccording to an embodiment of the invention and prevents the sectionsfrom separating from one another.

FIG. 2 shows an artificial nail comprising three sections according toanother embodiment of the invention. As shown, artificial nail 20 maycomprise a first section 211 formed by a runner system method asdescribed for the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. As shown, projection orrunner 221 is formed integral with the section of the artificial nailformed by a runner system method, for example first section 211.Projection or runner 221 must be removed in a separate processing stepbefore the artificial nail can be used. Preferably, the artificial nailis sold with runner 221 on first section 211 so that runner 221 may beused by the wearer of artificial nail as a handle or applicator tofacilitate application of the artificial nail to the wearer's naturalnail. Runner 221 may also be provided with a number or other indiciaproviding size or other information regarding the associated nail.Following application of the artificial nail to the natural nail, theuser can simply and easily remove runner 221 from the artificial nail.

After removal of the projection or runner 221, a vestige or protrusionmay remain on a portion of the artificial nail section formed by arunner system method. This vestige may detract from or interfere withthe fit of the artificial nail, particularly if the vestige is disposedon an edge of the artificial nail to be positioned adjacent a wearer'scuticle area. The vestige may also form an air pocket that prevents goodsealing between the protrusion and an adjacent surface.

Accordingly, in a method according to an embodiment of the invention, asection of the artificial nail formed by a runner system method ofinjection molding preferably comprises a front distal tip of theartificial nail. A runner 221 used to form the front distal tip sectionof the artificial nail 20 is preferably arranged at an edge of theartificial nail which is not in contact with a wearer's cuticle area orthe wearer's natural nail when the artificial nail is applied. In thisway, a vestige resulting from forming a section of the artificial nailby a runner system method does not detract from or interfere with thefit of the artificial nail. Thus, a method according to an embodiment ofthe invention provides an artificial nail with an enhanced fit at thecuticle area, greater wearer comfort and a more natural lookingappearance. In addition, an air pocket which prevents good sealingbetween the artificial nail and a wearer's natural nail cannot form fromthe protrusion.

Artificial nail 20 may further comprise a second section 222 and a thirdsection 233, each of which are formed by a hot tip gate process asdescribed for the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. Second section 222 andthird section 233 may be formed by a hot tip gate process, such as amicro hot tip gate process, using hot manifolds, one for the materialfor second section 222 and one for the material for third section 233.For example, each of second section 222 and third section 233 may beformed by injecting a respective heated material from a respectiveheated nozzle into a respective cavity gate in the mold. Preferably, thegates are small, for example 0.0025 inches (0.0635 mm) in diameter, asthe sections being formed are thin walled, for example 0.005 inches(0.127 mm) in thickness.

Use of a hot tip gate process to form second and third sections 222, 233allows the direct gating on the section, which provides flexibility inthe formation of the sections of the artificial nail and better controlover the placement of the vestiges formed on the respective section. Thehot tip gate process also eliminates the waste as no runner material isformed for those sections.

The hot tip gate process used to form second and third sections 222, 233may employ a heated nozzle which feeds the material directly into themold cavity, preferably at an angle generally upward and directed towardthe proximal portion of the artificial nail to facilitate material flowinto the mold. As shown, second section 222 has a first end 223 adjacentthe front distal tip of the artificial nail 20 and a second end 225distal the front tip of the artificial nail 20. Similarly, third section233 has a first end 232 adjacent the front distal tip of the artificialnail 20 and a second end 235 distal the front tip of the artificial nail20.

Respective gates 224, 234 in the mold cavity used to inject the materialor materials used to form second section 222 and third section 233 maybe positioned at a portion of the respective section other than secondend 225, 235. Preferably, the gates used to form the second and thirdsections of the artificial nail by a hot tip gate process are disposedin a region of the respective section proximate the front distal tipsection formed by a runner system method. Gates 224, 234 may further bepositioned at an edge or bottom surface of the respective section 222,233. The gates should be at a location where the artificial nail willnot be in contact with a wearer's natural nail to prevent an air pocketfrom forming where the vestige or protrusion from the gate is located.Preferably, at least gate 234 from third section 233 is locatedvertically beneath a portion of front distal tip section 211 so as toensure that the protrusion will not be in contact with the wearer'snatural nail and cannot cause an air pocket to prevent sealing betweenthe natural nail and the artificial nail when the artificial nail isapplied.

The hot tip gate injection molding process used to form second section222 and third section 233 minimizes the gate vestige formed on therespective section. For example, the gate vestige may be 0.005 inches(0.127 mm). This feature contributes to an enhanced fit at the cuticlearea, greater wearer comfort and a more natural looking appearance forthe artificial nail. In addition, as stated above, by locating the gateused to form at least the third or lowermost section 233 distal of wherethe third section 233 will be in contact with the wearer's natural nail,the possibility of an air pocket between the artificial nail and thewearer's natural nail caused by the gate vestige is eliminated.Preferably, the gate 224 from the second section 222 is also locateddistal of where third section 233 will be in contact with the wearer'snatural nail and beneath a portion of front distal tip section 211, butthis location is less important as the gate vestige will be covered bythird section 233 and not in contact with the wearer's natural nail.

The methods for forming, materials and appearance of the varioussections of artificial nail 20 are similar to those described for theembodiment shown in FIG. 1. However, the interface between adjacentportions of first section 211, second section 222 and third section 233as shown in FIG. 2 comprises a single step interface, wherein secondsection 222 adjoins first section 211 in a substantially verticalmanner.

The materials for the first, second and third sections 211, 222 and 233are preferably chosen so as to be compatible and bond with each otherchemically so that the sections adhere together and the risk ofseparation between sections is minimized. The materials should also bechemically resistant to certain products, such as nail polish oradhesives used to apply the artificial nail to a wearer's natural nail.Preferably, first and second section 211, 222 are formed to be rigid,but flexible. Preferably, first section 211 is white in color and madefrom pure acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Second section 222 ispreferably pink in color and made from a mixture of ABS andthermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Third section 233 is preferablydeformable and made from TPU.

FIG. 3 shows an artificial nail comprising two sections according toanother embodiment of the invention. Artificial nail 30 is formed byinjection molding in a mold having a mold cavity that defines thedimensions and shape of artificial nail 30. A first section 311 and asecond section 322 are formed so that a portion of each section isadjacent to a portion of the other section.

In a preferred method, first section 311 is formed first and defines afront distal tip of artificial nail 30. Artificial nail 30 is preferablysized so that at least a portion of first section 311 extends from awearer's natural nail. First section 311 may be formed by a runnersystem method of injection molding. For example, first section 311 maybe formed by injecting a quantity of heated material under pressure froma nozzle, into a sprue, through a runner and through a cavity gate oropening in a mold into a mold cavity.

As shown in FIG. 3, the runner system arrangement used to form firstsection 311 results in the formation of a projection 321 comprisingsolidified material formed in the channel connecting the cavity gate tothe source of material used to form the artificial nail section.Projection 321 may be formed, for example, in the runner connecting asprue to a cavity gate through which the material used to form firstsection 311 flows. Projection 321 accordingly may have the shape anddimensions of the runner and may be referred to as a runner.

As shown, projection or runner 321 is formed integral with the sectionof the artificial nail formed by a runner system method, for examplefirst section 311. Projection or runner 321 must be removed in aseparate processing step before the artificial nail can be used.Preferably, the artificial nail is sold with runner 321 on first section311 so that runner 321 may be used by the wearer of artificial nail as ahandle or applicator to facilitate application of the artificial nail tothe wearer's natural nail. Runner 321 may also be provided with a numberor other indicia providing size or other information regarding theassociated nail. Following application of the artificial nail to thenatural nail, the user can simply and easily remove runner 321 from theartificial nail.

After removal of the projection or runner 321, a vestige or protrusionmay remain on a portion of the artificial nail section formed by arunner system method. This vestige may detract from or interfere withthe fit of the artificial nail, particularly if the vestige is disposedon an edge of the artificial nail to be positioned adjacent a wearer'scuticle area. The vestige may also form an air pocket that prevents goodsealing between the protrusion and an adjacent surface.

Accordingly, in a method according to an embodiment of the invention, asection of the artificial nail 30 formed by a runner system method ofinjection molding preferably comprises a front distal tip of theartificial nail. A runner 321 used to form the front distal tip sectionof the artificial nail is preferably arranged at an edge of theartificial nail which is not in contact with a wearer's cuticle area orthe wearer's natural nail when the artificial nail is applied. In thisway, a vestige resulting from forming a section of the artificial nailby a runner system method does not detract from or interfere with thefit of the artificial nail. Thus, a method according to an embodiment ofthe invention provides an artificial nail with an enhanced fit at thecuticle area, greater wearer comfort and a more natural lookingappearance. In addition, an air pocket which prevents good sealingbetween the artificial nail and a wearer's natural nail cannot form fromthe protrusion.

As described above, first section 311 may be formed by a runner systemmethod, for example by injecting a quantity of heated material underpressure from a nozzle into a sprue, through a runner and thorough acavity gate into a mold cavity. The material used to form first section311 may be a mixture of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plasticand a polycarbonate. Additionally, first section 311 may be formed fromany plastic-like material commonly employed in the manufacture ofartificial nails, such as ABS plastic, nylon, tenite acetate, vinylacetate, polycarbonates, polyvinyl chloride, etc.

Preferably, first section 311 comprises a hard, polymeric body. Examplesof suitable hard materials for first section 311 are Styrolux®684D(SBC), a styrene-butadiene block copolymer available from BASFCorporation; Cyro®R40 (acrylic base), an acrylic-based multipolymeravailable from Cyro Industries of Rockaway, N.J.; Lexane KR01 (PC)(trade name), a polycarbonate available from GE Plastics; K-resin®(SBC), a styrene-butadiene copolymer available from Chevron PhillipsChemical Company; TP-UXS (MMBS) (trade name), a methyl methacrylatebutadiene styrene terpolymer available from DENKA of Tokyo, Japan;Starex®5010 (ABS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available fromSamsung Cheil Industries; Zylar®220 (SMMC) and Nas®30, styrene methylmethacrylate copolymers available from Nova Chemicals; and Toyalac 920(clear ABS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from TorayResin Company.

First section 311 which forms a front distal tip of the artificial nail,is preferably different in color from second section 322 of artificialnail 30. First section 311 may be translucent, transparent, or opaque.

In a preferred embodiment, first section 311 comprises a white,off-white or near-white color, wherein second section 322 comprises acontrasting or different color thereby providing the appearance of a“french tip” or french manicure.

Additionally, first section 311 preferably has a color which issubstantially uniform through a thickness of the section. For example,first section 311 may be formed from a substantially homogenous materialsuch that an appearance of first section 311 is substantially the samefrom a top surface to a bottom surface of the section. In this way, theappearance of a colored portion at the distal tip of the artificial nailwill not be diminished by scratching, chipping, rubbing and/or peelingas is the case with existing artificial nails wherein color is appliedas a thin layer disposed over the distal tip section.

Moreover, a method of forming an artificial nail having a distal tipwith a substantially uniform color through its thickness according to anembodiment of the invention eliminates the steps of coating theartificial nail section with a thin layer of nail polish or othercolored solution as well as the additional step of sealing the thincolored layer of the artificial nail with a sealing agent.

Fashioning a front section 311 with a distal portion made from onematerial that extends entirely from the top to the bottom of theartificial nail is preferable over having the distal portion extend onlypartially to the bottom of the distal portion of the artificial nail,such as where a separate layer of material is placed underneath thedistal portion of first section 311. In this way, the entire distal endof the artificial nail is one color and material so that even if viewedfrom underneath or from the end and even if scratched, the distalportion of the first section will appear to have one, preferably white,color to better simulate a french manicure.

Accordingly, embodiments of the invention provide a method for formingan artificial nail having various colored sections in a simple andeconomical way.

As shown in FIG. 3, artificial nail 30 may comprise at least oneadditional section, shown as second section 322. Second section 322 maybe formed by a hot tip gate process, such as a micro hot tip gateprocess, using a hot manifold. For example, second section 322 may beformed by injecting a heated material from a heated nozzle into a cavitygate in the mold. Preferably, the gate is small, for example 0.0025inches (0.0635 mm) in diameter as the section being formed is thinwalled, for example 0.005 inches (0.127 mm) in thickness.

Use of a hot tip gate process to form second section 322 providesflexibility in the formation of the section and better control over theplacement of a vestige formed on the section. The hot tip gate processalso eliminates the waste as no runner material is formed for thesection formed by a hot tip gate process.

The hot tip gate process used to form second section 322 may employ aheated nozzle which feeds the material directly into the mold cavity,preferably at an angle generally upward and directed toward the proximalportion of the artificial nail to facilitate material flow into themold. As shown, second section 322 has a first end 323 adjacent thefront distal tip of the artificial nail 30 and a second end 325 distalthe front tip of the artificial nail 30.

Gate 324 in the mold cavity used to inject the material or materialsused to form second section 322 may be positioned at a portion of secondsection 322 other than second end 325. Preferably, the gate used to formthe second section 322 of the artificial nail by a hot tip gate processis disposed in a region proximate the front distal tip section formed bya runner system method. Gate 324 may further be positioned at an edge orbottom surface of second section 322. Gate 324 should be at a locationwhere the artificial nail will not be in contact with a wearer's naturalnail to prevent an air pocket from forming where the vestige orprotrusion from the gate is located. Preferably, gate 324 is locatedvertically beneath a portion of front distal tip section 311 so as toensure that the protrusion will not be in contact with the wearer'snatural nail and cannot cause an air pocket to prevent sealing betweenthe natural nail and the artificial nail when the artificial nail isapplied.

The hot tip gate injection molding process used to form second section322 minimizes the gate vestige formed on the section. For example, thegate vestige may be 0.005 inches (0.127 mm). This feature contributes toan enhanced fit at the cuticle area, greater wearer comfort and a morenatural looking appearance for the artificial nail. In addition, asstated above, by locating the gate used to form second section 322distal of where the section will be in contact with the wearer's naturalnail, the possibility of an air pocket between the artificial nail andthe wearer's natural nail caused by the gate vestige is eliminated.

The material used to form second section 322 using a hot tip gateprocess may be the same or a different material as the material used toform first section 311 using a runner system method of injectionmolding. For example, the material used to form second section 322 maybe a mixture of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic and apolycarbonate. Additionally, second section 322 may be formed from anyplastic-like material commonly employed in the manufacture of artificialnails, such as ABS plastic, nylon, tenite acetate, vinyl acetate,polycarbonates, polyvinyl chloride, etc.

Second section 322 may comprise a hard, polymeric body. Examples ofsuitable hard materials for second section 322 are Styrolux®684D (SBC),a styrene-butadiene block copolymer available from BASF Corporation;Cyro®R40 (acrylic base), an acrylic-based multipolymer available fromCyro Industries of Rockaway, N.J.; Lexane KR01 (PC) (trade name), apolycarbonate available from GE Plastics; K-resin® (SBC), astyrene-butadiene copolymer available from Chevron Phillips ChemicalCompany; TP-UXS (MMBS) (trade name), a methyl methacrylate butadienestyrene terpolymer available from DENKA of Tokyo, Japan; Starex®5010(ABS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Samsung CheilIndustries; Zylar®220 (SMMC) and Nas®30, styrene methyl methacrylatecopolymers available from Nova Chemicals; and Toyalac 920 (clear ABS),an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene available from Toray Resin Company.

Preferably, however, second section 322 is formed from a soft ordeformable material. An advantage of forming second section 322 from adeformable material is that each artificial nail will conform moreclosely to the user's natural nail when applied thereto. A furtheradvantage of forming second section 322 from a deformable material isthat first section 311 may be made from a wide variety of hardsubstances while also enabling the artificial fingernail to be easilyremovable by conventional acetone removers. Because the second section322 comprises a deformable layer that contacts the wearer's nail,materials that do not readily dissolve in acetone may be used for thefirst section 311 without sacrificing ease of removability.

For example, after selecting an appropriately sized artificial nail 30,the user may apply a selected conventional adhesive, such as anethylcyanoacrylate-based glue, to the natural nail. Artificial nail 30is then placed on the natural nail so as to cover substantially all or aportion of the upper nail surface. Pressure is applied by pressing downon artificial nail 30. Such pressure causes second section 322 tocompress and conform to the contour of the upper surface of the wearer'snatural nail, thereby providing a better fit. If desired, once applied,artificial fingernail 30 may be trimmed and shaped using a nail file.

Exemplary deformable materials used to form second section 322 arethermoplastic elastomers (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) ormixtures thereof, preferably silicone, silicone derivatives, rubbers, orother materials which will deform under pressure to conform to thecontour of a wearer's natural nail. For example, material suitable forforming soft contact lenses such as silicone elastomers,silicone-containing macromers, hydrogels, silicone-containing hydrogels,siloxanes, siloxane macromers, and mixtures thereof may be used to formsecond section 322.

Examples of suitable soft or deformable materials areVersaflex®OM9-802CL, a thermoplastic elastomer alloy available from GLSCorporation of Arlington Heights, Ill.; TPE40ANS200 (trade name), athermoplastic elastomer alloy available from Advanced Elastomer Systems;Elastollan®TPU, a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer available fromBASF Corporation; Estane TPU (trade name), a thermoplastic polyurethaneelastomer available from Noveon, Inc.; and Engage 8407 TPU, a polyolefinelastomer available from Du Pont Dow Elastomers of Wilmington, Del.

The materials for the first and second sections 311, and 322 arepreferably chosen so as to be compatible and bond with each otherchemically so that the sections adhere together and the risk ofseparation between sections is minimized. The materials should also bechemically resistant to certain products, such as nail polish oradhesives used to apply the artificial nail to a wearer's natural nail.Preferably, first section 311 is formed to be rigid, but flexible.Preferably, first section 311 is white in color and made from pureacrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Second section 322 is preferablypink in color and made from a deformable material, for example, TPU.

In a preferred embodiment, second section 322 may have a back proximalportion which extends beyond the back proximal part of first section 311and is adapted to conform to a cuticle portion of the wearer's nail andremain deformable when the artificial nail is worn by the wearer, theback proximal portion of the second section 322 forming a portion of atop surface of the artificial nail without being covered by firstsection 311.

Second section 322 may be translucent, transparent, or opaque. Forexample, second section 322 may comprise a translucent polymericmaterial which preferably simulates the color of a natural fingernail.The term “translucent” is meant to include both transparent or clearmaterials and tinted materials that permit materials disposed underneathto be visible there through. Second section 322 may further comprise anopaque material. A second end 325 of second section 322 may have anupper surface that has been treated to render it opaque by chemical ormechanical etching. The term “opaque” is meant to include frostedsurfaces which may permit a small amount of light to pass through.Preferably, this upper surface has a curved “half moon” perimeter tosimulate the area of a natural fingernail.

Second section 322 may form at least a portion of a bottom surface ofartificial nail 30 adapted to be disposed on an upper surface of anatural nail of a wearer of artificial nail 30. Second section 322 maybe generally of uniform thickness, for example 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm, but maydecrease in thickness (i.e. taper) at second end 325 to facilitateattachment and blending with a natural nail. For example, second end 325of second section 322 preferably tapers to a smaller thickness, forexample 0.03 mm to 0.1 mm, at its proximal end to facilitate attachmentand blending with a natural nail. Additionally, second end 325 of secondsection 322 may comprise a cuticle contact area 326 having a curved edgeadapted to contact a cuticle portion of a natural nail.

Adjoining portions of first section 311 and second section 322 may forma stepped interface. The stepped interface between adjacent sections maycomprise a number of substantially horizontal segments and a number ofsubstantially vertical segments arranged at approximately right anglesto one another. As shown in FIG. 3, stepped interface may comprise, forexample, a two step interface.

An advantage of forming adjoining sections of an artificial nail as astepped interface is that this structure provides enhanced mechanicalstrength to the artificial nail. The stepped interface provides a strongmechanical bond between adjacent sections of an artificial nailaccording to an embodiment of the invention and prevents the sectionsfrom separating from one another.

FIG. 4 shows an artificial nail comprising two sections according toanother embodiment of the invention. As shown, artificial nail 40 maycomprise a first section 411 formed by a runner system method asdescribed for the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. As shown, projection orrunner 421 is formed integral with the section of the artificial nailformed by a runner system method, for example first section 411.Projection or runner 421 must be removed in a separate processing stepbefore the artificial nail can be used. Preferably, the artificial nailis sold with runner 421 on first section 411 so that runner 421 may beused by the wearer of artificial nail as a handle or applicator tofacilitate application of the artificial nail to the wearer's naturalnail. Runner 421 may also be provided with a number or other indiciaproviding size or other information regarding the associated nail.Following application of the artificial nail to the natural nail, theuser can simply and easily remove runner 421 from the artificial nail.

After removal of the projection or runner 421, a vestige or protrusionmay remain on a portion of the artificial nail section formed by arunner system method. This vestige may detract from or interfere withthe fit of the artificial nail, particularly if the vestige is disposedon an edge of the artificial nail to be positioned adjacent a wearer'scuticle area. The vestige may also form an air pocket that prevents goodsealing between the protrusion and an adjacent surface.

Accordingly, in a method according to an embodiment of the invention, asection of the artificial nail formed by a runner system method ofinjection molding preferably comprises a front distal tip of theartificial nail. A runner 421 used to form the front distal tip sectionof the artificial nail 40 is preferably arranged at an edge of theartificial nail which is not in contact with a wearer's cuticle area orthe wearer's natural nail when the artificial nail is applied. In thisway, a vestige resulting from forming a section of the artificial nailby a runner system method does not detract from or interfere with thefit of the artificial nail. Thus, a method according to an embodiment ofthe invention provides an artificial nail with an enhanced fit at thecuticle area, greater wearer comfort and a more natural lookingappearance of the artificial nail. In addition, an air pocket whichprevents good sealing between the artificial nail and a wearer's naturalnail cannot form from the protrusion.

As shown in FIG. 4, artificial nail 40 may comprise at least oneadditional section, shown as second section 422. Second section 422 maybe formed by a hot tip gate process, such as a micro hot tip gateprocess, using a hot manifold. For example, second section 422 may beformed by injecting a heated material from a heated nozzle into a cavitygate in the mold. Preferably, the gate is small, for example 0.0025inches (0.0635 mm) in diameter as the section being formed is thinwalled, for example 0.005 inches (0.127 mm) in thickness.

Use of a hot tip gate process for second section 422 providesflexibility in the formation of the section and better control over theplacement of a vestige formed on the section. The hot tip gate processalso eliminates the waste as no runner material is formed for thesection formed by a hot tip gate process.

The hot tip gate process used to form second section 422 may employ aheated nozzle which feeds the material directly into the mold cavity,preferably at an angle generally upward and directed toward the proximalportion of the artificial nail to facilitate material flow into themold. As shown, second section 422 has a first end 423 adjacent thefront distal tip of the artificial nail 40 and a second end 425 distalthe front tip of the artificial nail 40.

Gates 424 in the mold cavity used to inject the material or materialsused to form second section 422 may be positioned at a portion of secondsection 422 other than second end 425. Preferably, the gates used toform the second section 422 of the artificial nail by a hot tip gateprocess is disposed in a region proximate the front distal tip sectionformed by a runner system method. Gate 424 may further be positioned atan edge or bottom surface of second section 422. Gate 424 should be at alocation where the artificial nail will not be in contact with awearer's natural nail to prevent an air pocket from forming where thevestige or protrusion from the gate is located. Preferably, gate 424 islocated vertically beneath a portion of front distal tip section 411 soas to ensure that the protrusion will not be in contact with thewearer's natural nail and cannot cause an air pocket to prevent sealingbetween the natural nail and the artificial nail when the artificialnail is applied.

The hot tip gate injection molding process used to form second section422 minimizes the gate vestige formed on the section. For example, thegate vestige may be 0.005 inches ((0.127 mm). This feature contributesto an enhanced fit at the cuticle area, greater wearer comfort and amore natural looking appearance for the artificial nail. In addition, asstated above, by locating the gate used to form second section 422distal of where the section will be in contact with the wearer's naturalnail, the possibility of an air pocket between the artificial nail andthe wearer's natural nail caused by the gate vestige is eliminated.

The methods for forming, materials and appearance of the varioussections of artificial nail 40 are similar to those described for theembodiment shown in FIG. 3. However, the interface between adjacentportions of first section 411 and second section 422 as shown in FIG. 4comprises a single step interface.

The materials for the first and second sections 411 and 422 arepreferably chosen so as to be compatible and bond with each otherchemically so that the sections adhere together and the risk ofseparation between sections is minimized. The materials should also bechemically resistant to certain products, such as nail polish oradhesives used to apply the artificial nail to a wearer's natural nail.Preferably, first section 411 is formed to be rigid, but flexible.Preferably, first section 411 is white in color and made from pureacrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Second section 422 is preferablypink in color and made from a deformable material, for example TPU.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show additional embodiments of an artificial nailaccording to the invention, wherein the artificial nail is in the formof an extension or “tip” adapted to be placed on or near the end of awearer's natural nail. In particular, FIG. 5 shows a artificial nail 50in the form of a nail extension comprising three sections. FIG. 6 showsan artificial nail 60 in the form of a nail extension comprising twosections.

Artificial nail 50 and 60 may be formed by methods as described abovefor the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 and FIGS. 3 and 4respectively. Additionally, the materials and appearance of the varioussections of artificial nails 50 and 60 are similar to those describedfor the embodiments described above.

As shown, a third section 533 of artificial nail 50, may comprise a backproximal part 550 adapted to be disposed on an upper surface of anatural nail and a front distal part 551 adapted to abut against an endof the natural nail. Similarly, a second section 622 of artificial nail60 may comprise a back proximal part 650 adapted to be disposed on anupper surface of a natural nail and a front distal part 651 adapted toabut against an end of the natural nail.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a process for forming an artificialnail having two sections. As shown, a mold 70 is provided, for example atwo-part mold. Mold 70 has one or more internal mold cavities definingthe shape and dimensions of one or more artificial nails to be injectionmolded. In a first step 71, a first section of an artificial nail isformed by a runner system method of injection molding. For example, afirst section of an artificial nail may be formed by injecting aquantity of heated material under pressure from a nozzle, into a sprue,through a runner and through a cavity gate or opening in mold 70 andinto the mold cavity. In a second step 72, a second section of anartificial nail is formed using a hot tip gate process. For example, asecond section of the artificial nail may be formed by injecting aquantity of heated material through a heated nozzle through a gate inmold 70 and directly into the mold cavity.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a process for forming an artificialnail having three sections. As shown, a mold 80 is provided, for examplea two-part mold. Mold 80 has one or more internal mold cavities definingthe shape and dimensions of one or more artificial nails to be injectionmolded. In a first step 81, a first section of an artificial nail isformed by a runner system method of injection molding. For example, afirst section of an artificial nail may be formed by injecting aquantity of heated material under pressure from a nozzle, into a sprue,through a runner and through a cavity gate or opening in mold 80 andinto the mold cavity. In a second step 82, a second section of anartificial nail is formed using a hot tip gate process. For example, asecond section of the artificial nail may be formed by injecting aquantity of heated material through a heated nozzle through a gate inmold 80 and directly into the mold cavity. In a third step 83, a thirdsection of an artificial nail is formed using a hot tip gate process.For example, a third section of the artificial nail may be formed byinjecting a quantity of heated material through a heated nozzle througha gate in mold 80 and directly into the mold cavity. Other sequences arealso possible, for example one or more of the sections formed by a hottip gate process may be formed prior to a section formed using a runnersystem method.

FIG. 9 shows a seventh embodiment of an artificial nail in the form ofan extension or “tip” adapted to be placed on or near the end of awearer's natural nail for the appearance of longer nails. Artificialnail extension 700 includes a polymeric body 720 having first and secondsections 721, 723. Polymeric body 720 has the general overall shape andconfiguration of the distal end of a natural fingernail or toenail.Polymeric body 720 may be made from the same materials as the polymericbodies of the previous embodiments using a runner or hot tip method ofinjection molding.

First section 721 is made of a first translucent polymeric materialwhich may be clear or tinted. Second section 723 is made of a secondopaque polymeric material which is, for example, white or near white inappearance. The polymeric material for second section 723 may be thesame or different as the polymeric material for first section 721.

First section 721 has a stepped upper surface defined by generallyvertical edge 732 and generally horizontal edge 734 extending to thedistal end 736 of first section 721. The stepped upper surface forms areceiving area in a portion of upper surface 730 into which secondsection 723 is disposed.

First section 721 has a back proximal part 740 adapted to be disposed onan upper surface 712 of a natural nail 710 and a front distal part 750adapted to abut against an end 714 of natural nail 710.

Second section 723 is disposed above front distal part 750 and a portionof back proximal part 740 of first section 721.

Accordingly, while a number of embodiments of the present invention havebeen shown and described, it is obvious that many changes andmodifications may be made thereunto without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for providing an artificial nailcomprising: injection molding a first section of the artificial nail bya runner system injection molding process; hot tip gate injectionmolding a second section of the artificial nail; forming a gate vestigeon a bottom surface of the second section; and arranging the secondsection adjacent to the first section, wherein the first section definesa front distal tip of the artificial nail.
 2. The method according toclaim 1, wherein the step of forming a gate vestige on a bottom surfaceof the second section comprises forming a gate vestige having athickness of 0.005 inches.
 3. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising forming a combined arrangement from the first and secondsections, wherein the combined arrangement has a distal end and aproximal end, the proximal end being configured to be provided at acuticle portion of a natural nail, the distal end being configured to beprovided at a front portion of the natural nail which is opposite to andaway from the cuticle portion, and wherein a first thickness of thearrangement at the proximal end is smaller than a second thickness ofthe arrangement at the distal end.
 4. The method according to claim 1,wherein the second section includes a first portion at a first locationthrough which a hot tip gate injection mold has been provided, whereinthe first section includes a second portion at a second location throughwhich a runner system injection mold has been provided, and wherein thefirst location is vertically closer to a further location on a naturalnail to which the artificial nail is configured to be applied than thesecond location.
 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprisingforming a combined arrangement from the first and second sections,wherein the second section has a particular end provided opposite to acuticle portion of a natural nail, and wherein the first sectionoverlaps the second section at the particular end.